January 22
Saint Vincent of Saragossa
Deacon, Protomartyr of Spain
(3rd Century – Around 304)
“Do not think to shake our fortitude with threats of death or promises of reward, because there is nothing in this world which can be compared with the honor and pleasure of dying for Jesus Christ.”
Saint Vincent of Saragossa
Saint’s Life Story
His Early Life
Vincent was born in Huesca, near Saragossa, Aragon (Spain) sometime during the 3rd century. It is believed his father was Eutricius (Euthicius), and his mother was Enola, a native of Osca (Huesca). Vincent was educated by Bishop Saint Valerius. He spent most of his life in the city of Saragossa where he was educated.
Ordained as a Deacon
Vincent was ordained as deacon by Bishop Saint Valerius of Saragossa, who commissioned him to preach throughout the diocese. Because Saint Valerius suffered from a speech impediment, Vincent acted as his spokesman.
Vincent fulfilled this important duty with such success that a great number of sinners, and even of pagans, were converted at his discourses.
Imprisoned
When the Roman Emperor Diocletian began persecuting Christians in Spain, both Saint Valerious and Vincent were brought before the Roman governor, Dacian, in Valencia, Spain. They were both chained and imprisoned in Valencia.
Though Vincent was finally offered release if he would consign the Scripture to the fire, he refused. Speaking on behalf of his bishop, Vincent informed the judge that they were ready to suffer everything for their faith, and that they could pay no heed either to threats or promises.
Tortured
His outspoken manner so angered the governor that he had every sort of torture inflicted on Vincent. He was stretched on the rack and his flesh torn with iron hooks. The governor, more incensed than ever, condemned him to the most cruel of torments that of being broiled on a species of grid iron studded with sharp points. The saint hearing this barbarous command, walked with joy to the frightful engine, in anticipation of his executioners: such was his eagerness to suffer. Then his wounds were rubbed with salt and he was burned alive upon a red-hot gridiron. All admired the prodigious fortitude with which God inspired Vincent, and the pagans themselves exclaimed that it was miraculous.
His Martyrdom
Finally, he was cast into prison and laid on a floor scattered with broken pottery, where he died. During his martyrdom he preserved such peace and tranquillity that it astonished his jailer, who repented from his sins and was converted. Vincent’s dead body was thrown into the sea in a sack, but was later recovered by the Christians and his veneration immediately spread throughout the church.
Saint Vincent of Saragossa was one of the Church’s three most illustrious deacons, the other two being Stephen and Lawrence. He is also Spain’s most renowned martyr – the Protomartyr of Spain.
Born: Around the 3rd century in in Huesca, near Saragossa, Aragon (Spain)
Died: Around 304 in Valencia, Spain
Beatified: Pre-Congregation
Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Feast Day: January 22, January 23 (USA), November 11 (Orthodox Church)
Patron Saint: Lisbon, Portugal; Valencia, Spain; Vinegar-makers, Winemakers
Source:
Reflection
Saint Vincent of Saragossa spoke eloquently for his Bishop even when threatened by others. He suffered great pains while being tortured for continuing to trust and follow Jesus. In fact, Saint Vincent stated, “You may rest assured that you will tire of inflicting torments sooner than we of suffering them.” Surprisingly, this pain and torture that he endured only filled him with ever more zeal and strengthened his faith.
Do you see the Lord’s loving light when you are going through a difficult time or are in pain? Ask God today for the strength to see his goodness when you are in despair.
Prayers
Saint Vincent of Saragossa,
Faithful Deacon of Christ, you endured great suffering for the sake of the Gospel while remaining steadfast in your love for God despite all trials.
Few people are called to be tortured for the faith as you were, but through your courage and devotion, you became a shining example of perseverance in faith.
Intercede for us, so that we may have the strength to face our own challenges and sufferings that may come to us in more subtle ways.
Help us to persevere in the face of whatever persecution and suffering we do encounter, so that these challenges deepen our trust and faith in God, even in times of hardship..
Saint Vincent of Saragossa, pray for us. Amen.
Saint Links
Aleteia – Prayer to St. Vincent the Deacon to endure any suffering for Christ
All Saints & Martyrs – Saint Vincent, Martyr
Anastpaul – Saint of the Day – 22 January – St Vincent of Saragossa (Died 304) – Protomartyr of Spain
Angelus – Saint of the day: Vincent
Catholic Culture – St. Vincent of Saragossa
Catholic Exchange – St. Vincent of Saragossa
Catholic Ireland – Jan 22 – St Vincent of Saragossa (d. 304) Deacon, Martyr
Catholic News Agency – St. Vincent Feast Day: Jan 22
Catholic Online – St. Vincent Saragossa
Daily Prayer – Vincent of Saragossa
Editions Magnificant – Saint Vincent of Saragossa Deacon and Martyr († 304)
Franciscan Media – Saint Vincent of Zaragossa
My Catholic Life – Saint Vincent, Deacon and Martyr
New Advent – Mershman, F. (1912). St. Vincent. In The Catholic Encyclopedia
Rev Alban Butler’s Lives Of The Saints Complete Edition – St Vincent of Saragossa, Martyr
Saint for a Minute – Saint Vincent of Saragossa
Saint Mary’s Press – Saint Vincent the Deacon (d.304)
uCatholic– Saint Vincent of Saragossa